[ICOM] Ct-17 clones... comment

[we1x at comcast.net]

I've been using a 4-port CI-V USB interface from Black Cat Systems for past 6 months. Supports an Icom 7800, Icom 756Pro2, Icom 718, and Icom R75 with no problem whatsoever. I regularly use it with HRD/DM780. Have also used it with MixW and Logger32 with no issues.

Harry WE1X

-------------- Original message -------------- 
From: Doug Faunt N6TQS +1-510-655-8604 <faunt at panix.com> 

> But it's NOT "just like a CT-17"- I have yet to find a self-powered 
> interface that will drive more than one radio, and the CT-17 will 
> handle 4. 
> 
> And sometimes you want to use RTS and DTR for signaling purposes, 
> rather than for power. 
> 
> There are cases where this capability is useful. I've had two ICOMs 
> on the table, and switched control among them by changing the software 
> configuration, or run them from a satellite tracking program that 
> knows multiple addresses. 
> 
> A CT-17 is overkill, usually, but not always. OTOH, you could build a 
> real clone of a CT-17 for lots less money then ICOM wants for it. 
> http://www.usersmanualguide.com/icom/accesories__others/ct17 
> 
> 73, doug 
> 
> From: "Larry" 
> Date: Sat, 1 Dec 2007 09:36:44 -0800 
> 
> Mel that is true, but Neil will build you one that is self powered just like 
> the CT-17 still for a fraction of the price. I have both running Vista and 
> they are interchangeable. Really. 73 OZ 
> 
> Larry Wassman W3OZ 
> ARRL #1 Honor Roll 
> www.w3oz.com 
> 
> -----Original Message----- 
> From: icom-bounces at mailman.qth.net [mailto:icom-bounces at mailman.qth.net] On 
> Behalf Of Mel Martin 
> Sent: Saturday, December 01, 2007 8:20 AM 
> To: icom at mailman.qth.net 
> Subject: [ICOM] Ct-17 clones... comment 
> 
> "Unless you need a CT-17 specifically there are a lot of after market 
> devices that so the same thing at a fraction of the price." 
> 
> I think I'll put the record straight here. 
> 
> The CT-17 is a true RS232 to TTL converter using a MAX232 chip. It ALWAYS 
> works. Many of the "cheap" interfaces do NOT convert to a true RS232 
> standard and often work, but sometimes don't. Also the CT17 does not attempt 
> to power it's self from the RTS signal as do most "cheap" interfaces which 
> occasionally creates problems with laptops. Caveat emptor! 
> 
> BTW, yes I do use a "cheap" interface and it's working fine... But I have 
> had problems with them in the past, especially with older Icoms. I also have 
> a spare CT-17... But I'm hanging on to it as it is the Gold Standard in 
> level converters ;-) 
> ---- 
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